REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL. Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act

Transcription

1 REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Work-Based Learning Pilot Henderson, NV Published May 20, 2016 Submission Deadline July 8, 2:00 PM Late submissions will not be accepted. WIOA Youth CFDA#: Workforce Connections is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities. Nevada Relay 711 or (800) Workforce Connections hours of operation are Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Page 1 of 33

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Calendar of Events... 3 Section 1 RFP Introduction...4 Section 2 Proposal Review and Evaluation Process.11 Section 3 Overview...13 Section 4 Required Proposal Content...15 Section 5 Program Description...16 Section 6 Scoring Elements: Organizational Capacity and Past Performance..25 Section 7 Scoring Elements: Program Narrative.26 Section 8 Fiscal Elements.30 Section 9 Fiscal Narrative and Budget..33 Page 2 of 33

3 Request for Proposal Timeline (*All dates are subject to change) (All times noted in this RFP are Pacific Time) Request for Proposal (RFP) Release May 20, 2016 Mandatory Bidders Conference Workforce Connections 6330 W. Charleston Blvd., Suite 150 Las Vegas, NV June 2, 2:30 PM Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) Due June 9, 2016 by 2:00 PM Notification(s) of SOQ Approval No later than June 21, 2016 Last day to submit RFP Questions July 1, 2016 by 5:00 PM Proposals Due July 8, 2016 by 2:00 PM Public Proposal Opening July 8, 2:30 PM Evaluation of Proposals and Panel Interviews July 8, 2016 through July 22, 2016 Recommendation(s) Presented for Approval August 10, 2016 Programs August 23, 2016 Board Negotiations August 21-31, 2016 Program Commences September 1, 2016 Page 3 of 33

4 SECTION 1 RFP INTRODUCTION 1.1 Solicitation The purpose of this solicitation is to select a sub-recipient who will deliver career and training services to eligible youth funded under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014 (WIOA). The goal is to receive a wide variety of high quality innovative proposals that connect employers to a ready workforce and meet the needs of the Southern Nevada Workforce Development Area. Respondents are invited to submit a proposal for the following: Target Population: Geographic Area: WIOA Eligible Youth (80% Out-of-School and 20% In-School) 15% of total served must be Foster or aged-out Foster youth; and 15% of total served must be Youth with Disabilities This project must provide WIOA services to eligible youth participants residing in Henderson, Nevada, and surrounding areas in the Southern Nevada Workforce Development Area. Target Zip Codes: 89074, 89014, 89002, 89015, 89012, and Start Date: September 1, 2016 End Date: June 30, 2017 Type of Sub-Award: Cost-Reimbursement Sub-Award Option to Extend (if applicable): Ten (10) month initial term with the option to extend up to three (3) additional one year terms. Estimated Total Funding Available for this RFP: An amount not to exceed $750,000 for the first ten (10) month period. Estimated Number of Sub- One (1) Sub-Recipient Awards: Workforce Connections (WC) is soliciting proposals from qualified organizations to direct federal Department of Labor (DOL) WIOA Title I funds towards career and training services using evidence-based practices. Eligible respondents may include: For profit organizations; Non-profit organizations; Faith-based organizations; Page 4 of 33

5 Community-based organizations; Public agencies; and/or A collaboration of these organizations. WC encourages the participation of respondents who are certified as small businesses, minorityowned firms, and women s business enterprises. WC is committed to Equal Opportunity in its procurement process. A consortium, joint venture, or collaboration of organizations with complementary skills and experience is permitted to respond to this RFP, however, the proposal must clearly demonstrate that all contractual responsibility rests solely with one legal entity serving as the fiscal agent. The fiscal agent must retain documentation, such as meeting minutes and preliminary budgets, regarding the consortium that documents the partnership(s). This documentation will be used to establish a partner relationship for procurement purposes. Organizations that have not previously been awarded a Workforce Investment Act (WIA) or WIOA sub-award but have managed other federal, state, or local funds to deliver a similar program design, population served, and have participated in a collaborative service delivery approach are encouraged to apply. This RFP contains the requirements that respondents must meet in order to submit a responsive proposal. A responsive proposal is one that complies with all format and content requirements and amendments of the RFP. This RFP provides information regarding eligibility and the format requirements in which proposals must be submitted. Successful respondents will serve as sub-recipients of WIOA funds administered by DOL, Nevada Department of Employment Training and Rehabilitation (DETR) and WC. 1.2 Mandatory Bidders Conference Organizations that intend to submit proposals must attend a mandatory bidder s conference in order for their proposals to be considered. The bidder s conference will convene at the following date, time and location: Date: June 2, 2016 Time: 2:30 PM Location: Workforce Connections 6330 W. Charleston Blvd., Suite 150 Las Vegas, NV Page 5 of 33

6 The RFP process will be explained during this conference. Questions and answers from the bidder s conference will be posted on WC s website, RFP Questions To ensure a fair and objective evaluation, questions related to the RFP that arise after the mandatory bidder s conference must be submitted via . Written questions will be accepted via the provided below through the following date: Date: July 1, 2016 Time: 5:00 PM Henyo@snvwc.org Questions that are received after the deadline will not be answered. Written responses to questions received by WC will be posted on the website only. It is the respondent s responsibility to check the website on a regular basis for updated information and written responses to all questions submitted. PLEASE NOTE: With the exception of the Mandatory Bidders Conference, oral questions will NOT be accepted. Only the responses on the website are considered clarifications to the instructions contained in this RFP. In the event that responses modify any of the terms, conditions, or provisions of this RFP, documentation will be given via a subsequent amendment to the RFP. No other sources of responses or clarification are considered valid. 1.3 Addenda to this RFP At the discretion of WC, if it becomes necessary to revise any part of this RFP, an addendum will be posted on WC s website, Respondents are responsible for checking the website frequently to remain informed about the procurement process, receive addenda to the RFP, read responses to questions, and remain updated on other information that may affect this RFP. Each respondent, upon receiving notification by WC via a published addendum, must insert the information indicated in the RFP package. Failure to acknowledge any addenda will result in disqualification and rejection of the proposal. Page 6 of 33

7 1.5 Ex-Parte Communication It is the policy of WC to prohibit ex-parte communication with any board member (Local Elected Officials, Programs Committee, Budget & Finance Committee, etc.), WC staff, consultants or other persons serving as an evaluator during the procurement process. Respondents that directly contact board members or evaluators risk elimination of their proposals from further consideration. Any communication by telephone, , letter, face-to-face conversation, or other off-the-record contact is strictly prohibited. Any discovered ex-parte communication will be provided to WC s Executive Director for review and appropriate action. Respondents who improperly influence the proposal review and evaluation process in any way will be subject to disqualification. NOTE: Under no circumstances may an individual who is an evaluator collaborate and/or communicate with any respondent. Evaluators will be asked to sign the Conflict of Interest Certification for Request for Proposal stating they have not communicated or collaborated with any respondent. 1.6 Right to Cancel WC reserves the right to delay, amend, reissue, or cancel, all or any part of this RFP at any time without prior notice. WC also reserves the right to modify the RFP process and timeline as deemed necessary. This RFP does not commit WC to accept any proposal, nor is WC responsible for any costs incurred by the respondent in the preparation of responses to this RFP. WC reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, to accept or reject any or all items in the proposal, and to award the sub-award in whole or in part as is deemed to be in the best interest of WC. WC reserves the right to negotiate with any respondent after proposals are reviewed, if such action is deemed to be in the best interest of WC. 1.7 Termination due to Non-Availability of Funds When funds are not appropriated or otherwise made available by WC to support continuation of this RFP or any sub-award(s) therein, they shall be cancelled as of the effective date set forth in the termination notice. The sub-recipient shall be reimbursed for the reasonable value of any nonrecurring cost incurred but not yet recovered under this sub-award. Page 7 of 33

8 1.8 Protests Any respondent who has a protest in connection with this request shall have the right to submit, in writing, their protest to WC. Untimely protests will not be considered. The written protest must be submitted to: Ardell Galbreth, Executive Director Workforce Connections 6330 W. Charleston Blvd., Suite 150 Las Vegas, NV The protest must be in a format as outlined in WC Policy Admin Procurement Protest Standards. This policy can be found at: Failure by the respondent to request clarification of any inadequacy, omission, or conflict will not relieve the respondent of this responsibility. The signing of Form 4 Proposal Affirmation, Certification, and Conflict of Interest will be considered as implicitly denoting that the respondent has a thorough comprehension of the full intent and scope of this RFP. 1.9 Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) WC will require a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) to establish an organization s qualifications to bid for WIOA funds. The SOQ determines an organization s legal, administrative, and fiscal capacity to meet local, state, and federal government requirements. The SOQ allows the organization to be eligible to respond to this RFP and to be awarded a sub-award with WC. Organizations that have had an SOQ approved prior to January 1, 2016 must re-submit an updated SOQ in order to be eligible to compete. All respondents will be notified in writing regarding approval to the address that submitted the SOQ. One (1) electronic SOQ file in PDF format for each respondent must be submitted via and is due no later than: Due Date: June 9, 2016 Time: 5:00 PM Location: SOQ@snvwc.org Notification Date: No later than June 21, 2016 If multiple SOQs are submitted from the same entity, only the last SOQ submission received prior to the deadline will be reviewed. Page 8 of 33

9 Detailed information and the necessary forms will be available for download from WC s website at Please any questions regarding the SOQ template to: SOQ@snvwc.org Submittal of Proposals All proposals shall be time-stamped by WC upon receipt. Please provide one (1) electronic PDF copy submitted on a USB flash drive with the name of the organization clearly labeled on the USB flash drive. Each respondent s USB flash drive will be inspected at the technical review to ensure a PDF file is found on the device submitted. Proposals will not be accepted via facsimile or . Each respondent is required to submit their proposal in a format that is easy to read and understand. The respondent must avoid repetitious material. Each proposal should clearly demonstrate the respondent s ability to effectively manage and operate a program under WIOA and provide the services requested. All proposals must delivered on or before: Date: July 8, 2016 Time: 2:00 PM Location: Workforce Connections 6330 W. Charleston Blvd., Suite 150 Las Vegas, NV All USB flash drives must be submitted in a sealed envelope and plainly marked, Request for Proposal, with the RFP title and the name and address of the respondent clearly marked on the outside in the upper left hand corner of the sealed envelope. If a respondent sends their proposal via U.S. Postal Service, UPS, FedEx or any other type of delivery service, the respondent is responsible for requesting proof of delivery date and time from their chosen carrier. Respondents who wish to amend a proposal previously submitted must re-submit the entire proposal prior to the deadline noted in this RFP. In the event that multiple proposals are submitted by the same entity, only the last RFP submission received prior to the deadline will be reviewed. Proposals received after the denoted closing date and time will not be considered. Page 9 of 33

10 1.11 Proposal Preparation Costs The entire cost for the preparation of a proposal, and any related costs shall be borne by the respondent Assurances Each application for financial assistance under Title I of WIOA, as defined in Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations Part 38, must include the following assurances: As a condition to the award of financial assistance from DOL under Title I of WIOA, the grant respondent assures that it will comply fully with the nondiscrimination and equal opportunity provisions of the following laws: 1. Section 188 of WIOA, which prohibits discrimination against all individuals in the United States on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, transgender status, and gender identity), national origin (including limited English proficiency), age, disability, political affiliation or belief, and against beneficiaries on the basis of either citizenship/status as a lawfully admitted immigrant authorized to work in the United States or participation in any WIOA Title I financially assisted program or activity; 2. Title VI of the Civil Rights act of 1964, as amended, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color and national origin; 3. Section 504 of the rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, which prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities; 4. The Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of age; and 5. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs. 6. The grant respondent also assures that, as a recipient of WIOA Title I financial assistance, it will comply with 29 CFR part 38 and all other regulations implementing the laws listed above. This assurance applies to the grant respondent s operation of the WIOA Title I financially assisted program or activity, and to all agreements the grant respondent makes to carry out the WIOA Title I financially assisted program or activity. The grant respondent understands that the United States has the right to seek judicial enforcement of this assurance. Page 10 of 33

11 The assurance is considered incorporated by operation of law in the grant, cooperative agreement, contract or other arrangement whereby Federal financial assistance under Title I of WIOA is made available, 29 CFR Subpart B (a)(2). SECTION 2 PROPOSAL REVIEW AND EVALUATION PROCESS 2.1 Public Proposal Opening All proposals submitted will remain sealed until the public proposal opening which will be held on: 2.2 Technical Review Date: July 8, 2016 Time: 2:30 PM Location: Workforce Connections 6330 W. Charleston Blvd., Suite 150 Las Vegas, NV All proposals submitted will first undergo a technical review using Attachment A Technical Review Requirements. Organizations that submit proposals that do not pass the technical review will be notified no later than: 2.3 Selection Process Notification Date: July 21, 2016 The proposal review and evaluation process will be conducted utilizing a fair and objective process that adheres to WC s Procurement Policy and all other applicable state and federal regulations. All proposals that pass the technical review will be evaluated by impartial evaluators and scored using a scoring rubric. Proposals receiving an overall rating of at least 75% of the total available points will be considered as qualified to receive an award. Proposals determined to be most advantageous to the Local Area per the discretion of WC s Executive Director as well as overall costs and other factors may be considered in this assessment. Priority may be given to those proposals that offer the most promising approaches to meeting the needs of the target population identified in this RFP. Page 11 of 33

12 WC may select a proposal based on the initial information received; however, WC reserves the right to request additional data, conduct panel interviews, and conduct site visits. WC staff will schedule the time and location for panel interviews and site visits, if applicable. The objectives of the panel interviews and site visits are to address areas of proposals that may need additional clarification and/or to ensure that the respondent has the requisite ability, capacity, etc. NOTE: Handouts, promotional materials, videos, overheads, etc., are not permitted at panel interviews. Respondents will also be evaluated on their demonstrated ability to provide services for the targeted population as indicated in this RFP as well as: The successful submission, review and approval of a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ); The ability to meet the minimum eligibility requirements associated with the technical review process. Ineligible proposers will be informed in writing; Their participation in a panel interview if deemed applicable by WC. The results of the panel interview will be considered when determining final funding recommendations; and Their participation in pre-award interviews, site inspections, and/or telephone conferences if deemed appropriate by WC. If the results of any review indicate, in the opinion of WC, that the proposed sub-recipient may not be able to fulfill sub-award expectations, WC reserves the right not to enter into a sub-award agreement with the organization, regardless of the ranking and/or approval of the respondent s proposal. Note: Any bids may be rejected if it is determined to be in the best interest of the Southern Nevada Workforce Development Area. 2.4 Award Process Each respondent submitting a proposal will be notified in writing of WC s decision concerning their proposal. Formal notification to award sub-awards and the actual execution of a sub-award are subject to the following conditions: Approval by the Programs Committee, WC Board and ratification by the Local Elected Officials (LEOs); Receipt of WIOA funds from federal and state administering agencies; and Continued availability of WIOA funds. Page 12 of 33

13 WC will require the sub-recipient to participate in negotiations and modify their proposals based on the outcome of those negotiations. WC may decide not to fund part, or all, of a proposal even though it is found to be in the competitive range if in the opinion of WC the services proposed are not needed, the goals of the proposal do not align with goals of WC, or the costs are higher than WC finds reasonable in relation to the overall funds available. WC reserves the right to modify or alter the requirements and standards as set forth in this RFP based on program requirements mandated by state or federal agencies. In such instances, WC will not be held liable for provisions in the RFP package that become invalid. Additional funds received by WC may be used to expand existing sub-awards or to fund competitively rated proposals not initially funded under this RFP. These decisions shall be at the discretion of WC. Respondents are encouraged to utilize evidence-based, promising practices, best practices and/or research in developing the program designs. The activities and services described in the proposals can be provided through a lead agency or through partnerships. SECTION 3 OVERVIEW 3.1 Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act On July 22, 2014 President Barack Obama signed into law the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). WIOA is designed to improve and streamline access to federally funded employment, education, training, and support services. Congress passed the WIOA by a wide bipartisan majority and it is the first legislative reform in 15 years of the public workforce system. Every year the key programs forming the pillars of WIOA help tens of millions of job seekers and workers to connect to good jobs and acquire the skills and credentials needed to obtain them. The enactment of WIOA provides opportunity for reforms to ensure the One-Stop Delivery System (also known as the American Job Center System) is job-driven, responding to the needs of employers and preparing workers for jobs that are available now and in the future. WIOA supersedes WIA and amends the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act, the Wagner- Peyser Act, and the Rehabilitation Act of In general, WIOA takes effect on July 1, 2015, the first full program year after enactment, unless otherwise noted. DOL will issue further guidance on the timeframes for implementation of these changes and proposed regulations reflecting the changes in WIOA soon after enactment. The terms and conditions of this RFP may change based on WIOA legislation. Sub-recipients will be expected to remain informed on WIOA regulations and requirements. Page 13 of 33

14 For more information on WIOA and specific information on the seven WIOA job-driven elements found in Training and Employment Guidance Letter (TEGL) 3-14, please visit Roles and Responsibilities of WC Roles and responsibilities of WC include: Oversee and evaluate the management and operations of all programs funded by WC; Allocate and award funds; Monitor sub-recipient performance, quality of service, cost effectiveness, and report on performance to the Board; Develop and provide technical assistance to sub-recipient staff including providing standardized forms; Inform sub-recipients of federal and state policies, procedures, and rules that may impact the operations of the program(s), and give assistance as needed to implement them accordingly; Maintain local Management Information System (MIS); Ensure compliance with all rules, regulations, and procedures issued by all funding sources; and Process payments for selected training expenditures including all occupational skills training, on-the-job training, incumbent worker training and customized training payments. 3.3 Sub-Recipient Responsibilities Roles and responsibilities of the sub-recipient may include but are not limited to: Providing all required WIOA services to participants including meeting minimum enrollment benchmarks for at-risk populations (e.g., participants with disabilities, exoffenders, and foster youth, etc.); Utilizing of standardized forms provided by WC (e.g., initial assessment, objective assessment, individual employment plan, individual service strategy, individual training account (ITA), on-the-job training (OJT) contract, worksite agreement, budget, invoice, etc.); All WIOA youth services must be conducted at the One-Stop Career Center. Any requests to provide services outside of the One-Stop Career Center location must be approved by WC; Ensuring proper certifications for staff that may be required for any assessment tools; Coordinating services with mandatory partners in collaboration with the One-Stop Operator; Page 14 of 33

15 Documenting participant services and activities in WC s Management Information System (MIS); and Managing fiscal responsibilities. 3.4 Responsibility Revisions The roles and responsibilities of WC and the sub-recipient may be refined and changed as: Federal and State law or requirements are enacted and implemented covering the workforce development system; Regulations and procedures are developed or changed by DOL; WC s governing boards adopt local direction and procedures; and WC develops and coordinates mandatory strategic initiatives for the local workforce development area (e.g., Business Engagement activities, Mobile One-Stop, Workforce Development Academy, etc.). SECTION 4 REQUIRED PROPOSAL CONTENT The proposal shall clearly demonstrate the respondent's ability to provide the requested services. A responsive proposal is one that complies with the format and content requirements of the RFP. The RFP provides information regarding the format in which proposals must be submitted, the requirements that must be met to be eligible for consideration, the respondents responsibilities, and the documents to be included. In order to simplify the review process and obtain the maximum degree of comparison the proposal must be organized as follows: Title Page Table of Contents Executive Summary Proposal Narrative Budget Form Signature Sheet Form 1 RFP Title Page Form 2 Table of Contents One (1) page summary that must include an organizational overview related to workforce development and qualifications. Demonstrated Ability, Program Narrative, and Fiscal Narrative. The total cannot exceed fifteen (15) pages (excluding the executive summary, required attachments, and budget forms). Tables and graphs are not allowed in this section. Label each section and applicable subsection with the section number and title. Form 3 Youth Budget Template Form 4 Proposal Affirmation, Certification, and Conflict of Interest Page 15 of 33

16 Proposal Format Requirements: Font Pages Margins Spacing Footer 12 Point Times New Roman Single-Sided One (1) Inch This applies to ALL margins. Double-Spaced The name of the organization submitting the proposal and the page number on each page. SECTION 5 PROGRAM DESCRIPTION 5.1 Background On an annual basis over one million American young adults are disengage from the systems that are designed to prepare them for their futures (Corcoran, Steinberg, & Tallant, 2012). It is estimated that of the nation s 38.9 million youth years old, at least 6.7 million (17%) are neither enrolled in education nor participating in the labor market (Belfield, Levin, & Rosen, 2012). Consequently, these millions of young adults who are out of school and out of work are not obtaining the educational and occupational skills that are necessary for economic survival in today s economy (Fernandes & Gabe, 2009) Findings derived from various national surveys calculated a $1.6 trillion aggregate taxpayer burden and $4.75 trillion aggregate social burden for a cohort of 6.7 million disconnected youth, which included lost earnings, lower economic growth, lower tax revenues and higher government spending associated with out-of-school and unemployed youth (Belfield, Levin, & Rosen, 2012). Their disengagement evidently represents a significant loss of economic opportunity for themselves and the nation. WIOA make key investments under the new legislation to target and reengage out-of-school youth. In-School youth are still served under the Act; however, more emphasis is to get older youth engaged and entered into the workforce. WC, in alignment with WIOA, mandates the following components which supports successful educational achievement and employment: At least 80 percent of youth formula funds must be used to serve OSY. At least 30 percent of youth formula funds must be used to provide work-based learning activities such as work experiences, internships, on-the-job training (OJT), job shadowing, and pre-apprenticeships. Youth with disabilities and Foster Youth must be served in a comprehensive manner allowing for successful transition into adulthood and self-sufficient employment. Page 16 of 33

17 5.2 Statement of Need WC is soliciting competitive proposals to fund WIOA programs services for a Work-based Learning Pilot program in Henderson, NV. The intent of this RFP is to procure a qualified organization that possess the experience and knowledge in providing workforce development services to eligible out-of-school youth (OSY) years old, and in-school youth (ISY) years old facing significant challenges and barriers to educational achievement and employment. Respondents must also have extensive knowledge or established partnerships that provides comprehensive services to youth with disabilities and youth in or have aged-out of the foster care system. WC has established Health Care & Medical Services, Tourism, Gaming & Entertainment, Information Technology and Manufacturing as four key industry sectors to align career pathway efforts and work-based learning activities. Respondents must incorporate a comprehensive program model that includes strong employer partnerships from those key sectors and meaningful employer connections. Examples of partnerships with employers must include: Employer participation on curriculum development; Employer participant is job readiness activities or classroom teaching; In-kind donations; Internships and work-based learning activities; Commitment to interviewing and/or hiring successful participants; and Commitment to provide business intelligence on industry needs and changes. Respondents are required to provide comprehensive career coaching and case management that provides clear career guidance, address barriers, and assist in the attainment of the objectives and goals agreed upon in the individual service strategy. Respondents must first identify and address educational needs for youth who have dropped out of school or at-risk of dropping out school. Respondents must also demonstrate an understanding of how to intervene and provide support to youth with these challenges. Program models must include engagement efforts and partnerships with local educational entities to address these issues. Program models must incorporate evidence-based models that integrate educational needs with comprehensive career exploration and work-based learning activities critical to career readiness and the development of viable career pathway opportunities. The integration of a career pathways approach will help youth navigate and simplify difficult educational or vocational systems making credentialing programs easier to identify and more accessible. Program models must also provide a comprehensive introduction to all four industry sectors and incorporate a range of occupations for that given industry, levels of education and experience Page 17 of 33

18 needed, training requirements, and outline the existing career pathways. Programs must provide thorough assessments that identify career interest and academic abilities needed to be successful in that career. Program models must also include several career development and work-based learning activities that demonstrate meaningful exposure the industry of choice: Unsubsidized or subsidized work-experiences directly link to the industry of choice; Internships; Pre-apprenticeships; OJTs; Job shadowing; Career exploration activities; Project based learning activities in the industry sector; Career mentoring; and Occupational skills training. Programs should have a strong emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) occupations within the three identified sectors. STEM learning and career-based activities should be designed to engage and spark interest for occupations deemed critical for the future. Approximately 80% of all future occupations will require STEM knowledge and skills. In addition to providing career exploration and work-based learning activities, respondents must intertwine critical youth development components within their program models that incorporate mentorship, leadership development, and financial literacy. These three components will give youth an additional layer of support, polish soft skills, enhanced decision making abilities, leadership skills and financial knowledge needed to be successful as a young adult. Innovative approaches to leveraging WIOA program funds and the utilization of other community-based programs are essential to a successful program model. Innovative strategies including the use of technology should be woven throughout the program model. 5.3 Target Population and Geographic Area This project must provide WIOA services to eligible youth participants residing in Henderson, Nevada, and surrounding areas in the Southern Nevada Workforce Development Area. Target Zip Codes: 89074, 89014, 89002, 89015, 89012, and Page 18 of 33

19 This project must provide WIOA services to eligible youth residing in the Southern Nevada Workforce Development Area. In addition, the total served must include special populations with: 15% Youth with Disabilities; and 15% Foster or aged-out Foster Youth. 5.4 WIOA Programmatic Elements The following details WIOA or local process requirements related to direct service delivery and operational oversight of WC funded programs. WC provides technical assistance and training on these elements to sub-recipients and their staff prior to sub-award execution and on an on-going basis. Required Programmatic Elements: Refer to the policies on WC s website ( regarding WIOA required programmatic elements. Outreach and Communications: The sub-recipient must work to inform the greater community of services, resources and programs funded by WC. Activities will include: Community Outreach: The sub-recipient shall establish and maintain key community relationships to ensure that their funded programs are known by the general public. These relationships include, but are not limited to, media representatives, elected officials, training providers, professional associations and community organizations. Specific Population Outreach: The sub-recipient will be required to do outreach to the following special populations to ensure workforce development services are provided to individuals facing significant barriers to employment and training: o Youth with Disabilities; o Youth Re-Entry Populations; and o Foster Youth. Online Presence: The sub-recipient shall be visible and proactive with an online presence through an updated website and appropriate social media. The tagline Funded by Workforce Connections should appear on any and all communications for any WC funded programs. Special Events: The sub-recipient shall view special events as a viable strategy for increasing the recognition of the services, programs and resources funded by WC, especially with regional employers. Special events may include, but are not limited to, graduation ceremonies for training participants, open houses, press conferences, media tours, career panels and job fairs. Page 19 of 33

20 Priority of Service to Veterans and Eligible Spouses: WIOA programs are required to implement Veterans Priority of Service because they are the delivery point for a significant percentage of qualified job and training programs and services. Projects must be conducted in accordance with the Veterans Priority Provisions of the Jobs for Veterans Act, Public Law The Training and Employment Guidance Letter 10-09, November 10, 2009, provides general guidance regarding the implementation of the Veterans priority and how this priority will affect current business practices. Respondents must be familiar with Veterans Benefits Title 38, US Code (U.S.C.), Section 101 (2). WC provides technical assistance and training on the following elements to the sub-recipients and their staff prior to sub-award execution and on an on-going basis: WIOA Youth Eligibility: Funds awarded through this RFP will be used in providing services to WIOA eligible youth. Please refer to Attachment B WIOA Youth Eligibility Requirements. Youth Program Elements: The program must provide services to youth in accordance with the fourteen (14) WIOA youth program elements noted in Attachment C WIOA Youth Program Elements. Timely & Accurate Data Entry: The sub-recipient will be required to utilize the Management Information System (MIS) selected by WC. This includes the entry of individual participant data such as eligibility, demographics, enrollment, activities, case notes and outcomes. Subrecipients will be required to enter all participant data within eight (8) business days from the date of the service into WC s MIS. WC will provide training on this system upon approval of funding and will conduct ongoing monitoring to evaluate the sub-recipient s use of the MIS. Education/Experience Requirement: At a minimum, all staff funded by this project including program managers, career coaches, job developers, etc., must have at least an associate s degree in social work, psychology, education or a related field. Equivalent work experience and/or an industry recognized credential may be substituted for education. Any staff that lacks the necessary education/experience must have a plan on how they are working towards the required education/experience/credential. Professional Development Requirements: WC is requiring that any sub-recipient implement a WIOA Professional Development Training Plan for all direct staff. All direct staff must complete a minimum of thirty (30) hours each program year of facilitated learning opportunities including formal coursework, continuing education credit (CEUs), conferences, modules, workshops, webinars, and online learning classes. All training and learning opportunities must Page 20 of 33

21 align with the staff s current position, with an aim to increase effectiveness and improve results in WIOA programming. WC may also mandate professional development opportunities throughout the program year that may be counted towards the required number of hours. 5.5 Required Performance Measures The respondent must demonstrate in their project narrative how their programs will be able to help all enrolled clients meet the following long-term mandatory DOL performance accountability standards known as Common Measures. See Attachment D Department of Labor (DOL) Performance Measures for detailed information on the required outcomes set forth for WIOA. All required performance measures are subject to change at any time and WC may implement additional measures due to regulations or local need. 5.6 System Partnerships & Programs WIOA lists several types of populations that are to be targeted for employment and training services. Accordingly, partnerships are an effective strategy for serving these required populations. These include, but are not limited to, the following populations facing barriers to employment: public assistance recipients; low-income individuals; individuals with disabilities, including youth; ex-offenders; homeless; long-term unemployed; individuals who are English language learners; individuals who have low levels of literacy; foster youth; parenting or pregnant youth; and/or other populations facing barriers to education and/or employment and training. Specifically, sub-recipients will be required to do specific outreach to special populations facing significant barriers to education and/or employment and training. These include youth re-entry populations, youth with disabilities, and foster youth. It is not expected that any single organization can provide effective and efficient services to all aforementioned populations. As such, system partnerships will be required for purposes of outreach, recruitment, leveraging resources, continuity of services, etc. As a WIOA Title I youth core program, the sub-recipient will be required to be a party to any partnerships, formal or informal, that WC establishes with the following: Page 21 of 33

22 The following WIOA Core One-Stop Partner Programs: o Title II Adult Education and Family Literacy; o Title III Employment Service (Wagner-Peyser); and/or o Title IV Vocational Rehabilitation. Any of the following System Partners targeting respective populations: o Department of Veterans Affairs; o Department of Corrections; o Department of Juvenile Justice; o Department of Family Services; and/or o Department of Health & Human Services. Any of the WIOA Service Delivery Partners/Programs, such as: 5.7 Subject Matter Expertise o Career & Technical Education; o Community Services Block Grant; o Indian & Native American Programs; o Housing & Urban Development Employment & Training Programs; o Job Corps; o Second Chance Act; o TANF Employment & Training Programs; o Trade Adjustment Assistance; o Unemployment Insurance; and/or o YouthBuild. In order to ensure the utmost quality of services, the sub-recipient will be required to have staff with subject matter expertise in providing employment and training services to the following WIOA special populations: Youth with Disabilities; Youth Re-Entry Populations; and Foster Youth. Page 22 of 33

23 The following should be taken into consideration when staffing with the required subject matter expertise: Specialization (i.e., with specific population); Educational background (e.g., degrees, certifications, credentials, etc.); and/or Experiential background (e.g., work experience, history, etc.). Staff with subject matter expertise with the sub-recipient will: Promote the participation of respective populations in employment and training programs; Provide and coordinate the provision of services to respective populations, including career counseling, assessments, identifying training and employment opportunities, recognizing additional services; Monitor job listings opportunities for respective populations; Establish employer outreach-strategies and eventual working partnerships with employers that hire the respective populations; Monitor complaints from respective populations; and Cooperate with respective system partners to identify and aid in work-specific needs and services to improve employability of respective populations. 5.8 Career Coach For the purposes of this RFP, a Career Coach is an individual that has expertise in career development, career counseling techniques, administration and interpretation of assessments, career information resources, etc. Career Coaches were formerly known as Case Managers under WIA. Career Coaches must be able to explain the employment and training services as related to youth populations, including particular populations noted above. Career Coaches will provide assistance to youth by, but not limited to, the following: Assisting with educational and occupational choices; Assessing interests, abilities, and aptitudes; Evaluating educational and occupational backgrounds; Addressing educational and/or occupational skills gaps; Advising about occupational training and/or educational programs needed for particular careers; Addressing barriers related to employability (e.g., soft skills, technical skills, social skills, behavioral skills, etc.); Locating resources and sources of career information; Page 23 of 33

24 Identifying training and employment opportunities; and Recognizing any needs for additional services. The following should be taken into consideration when staffing Career Coaches: Educational background (e.g., degrees, certifications, credentials, etc.); and/or Experiential background (e.g., work experience, history, etc.). 5.9 Job Developer For the purposes of this RFP, a Job Developer is an individual that has expertise in creating job opportunities for and youth by researching, identifying, and soliciting possible sources of employment. Job Developers must be able to explain the process and practices for gainful employment to youth including special populations noted in this RFP. Respondents are required to budget for a minimum of one full-time job developer whose activities shall be dedicated exclusively to engaging industry and coordinating work related activities for program participants. Job Developers will provide assistance to youth including but not limited to the following: Meet with career coaches to identify job-ready candidates and/or to provide status reports regarding participant s job search progress and follow up on employed participant for job retention; Assess the participant s current ability and skill level in order to properly determine job readiness; Provide direct job matching of current openings to participants; Offer qualified job candidates the opportunity to interview for posted jobs; Promote and develop employment and on-the-job training opportunities for participants; Engage with potential employers to secure internships, job shadow opportunities, preapprenticeships, apprenticeships, work experiences, and unsubsidized job placements for program participants while also explaining benefits and employment support services provided to employers including addressing each employer s special needs; Assist participants with job search skills, such as resume writing, interviewing, networking, etc.; Perform career counseling and help job seekers make appropriate career decisions; Contact participants via telephone, and/or correspondence to follow-up on their job searching activities; Match participants with labor market demand; Plan, coordinate, conduct job fairs and on-site recruitment events; Page 24 of 33

25 Provide participants with information on upcoming job fairs, job leads and other sources that will assist them in their search for employment; and Regularly interface with WC s Business Engagement Specialist Team (BEST) for job placement with BEST employers, participate in BEST job fairs and pre-screening days and/or other recruitment activities. The following should be taken into consideration when staffing a Job Developer: Educational background (e.g., degrees, certifications, credentials, etc.); Experiential background (e.g., work experience, history, sales experience, 2-5 years experience dealing with individuals and facilitating groups of harder to employ clients facing multiple barriers to employment, etc.); and/or Familiarity with return-to-work strategies, life-skills, employment training and counseling. SECTION 6 SCORING ELEMENTS: PERFORMANCE 30% of Total Score ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY AND PAST All respondents must respond to the following questions and instructions. Questions must be answered in concrete language, using quantifiable measurements whenever possible, and be specific about the role of each collaborator. All narrative responses must be limited to a maximum of fifteen (15) pages total (excluding required attachments). 6.1 Demonstrated Ability Describe your organization s past experience in administering WIA/WIOA programs and any experience in other employment and training programs, state or federally funded programs, or other workforce support programs. Include the name of program, amount of funding, location, type, and scope of the programs and services, and the role of your agency as it relates to program operations. Demonstrate and provide examples of how you were performance-driven, flexible, innovative, and creative in the delivery of services. Describe your organization s experience in serving diverse participants including, but not necessarily limited to: economically disadvantaged individuals with little or no work experience, individuals with low educational attainment or low literacy proficiencies, veterans, individuals with disabilities, those with limited English ability, minorities, exoffenders, or those who may have experience and skills but have not worked for an extended period. Discuss with performance numbers your success with these or similar populations. Page 25 of 33

26 Describe your organization s experience (numbers annually achieved) with job development and job placement. Discuss business services you have delivered and how these built relationships with employer partners. Describe your organization s strategy and achievements in retaining placements in their employment. Give the timeframe of these programs and percentage of successful retentions. Describe how you have collaborated and executed a project with multiple stakeholders. Include the distinct roles of each partner and the steps taken to achieve positive outcomes. 6.2 Panel Interview All respondents will be required to address questions from a panel consisting of subject matter experts in providing workforce development services, including serving at-risk populations (e.g., individuals with disabilities, ex-offenders and foster youth). SECTION 7 SCORING ELEMENTS: PROGRAM NARRATIVE 50% of Total Score All respondents must respond to the following questions and instructions. Questions must be answered in concrete language, using quantifiable measurements whenever possible, and be specific about the role of each collaborator. All narrative responses must be limited to a maximum of fifteen (15) pages total (excluding required attachments). 7.1 Approach Describe how your program design will provide comprehensive programmatic services for participants. Include a flow chart detailing the progression from enrollment through exit to follow-up including all service options (the flow chart can be included in the attachments). Discuss how you will ensure that those participants receive services that appropriately address their barriers and result in positive outcomes. Describe your program s unique and innovative approaches to workforce development program design and leveraging partner resources that will benefit the workforce development area. Describe your plan to access the services of the required core partners and other recommended partners. Please attach letters of support and/or memorandums of understanding (MOUs) detailing partner roles, responsibilities, and resources provided. (Letters of support and MOUs do not count as part of the 15 page narrative.) Page 26 of 33